Photographer's Note

Père Lachaise Cemetery (French: Cimetière du Père-Lachaise; formerly, cimetière de l'Est, "East Cemetery") is the largest cemetery within the city of Paris covering 44 hectares or 110 acres. It now numbers over one million interments. It is also the site of three World War I memorials.

The cemetery is located in the 20th arrondissement and is notable for being the first garden cemetery in the world, as well as the first municipal cemetery.

The cemetery takes its name from the confessor to Louis XIV, Père François de la Chaise (1624–1709), who lived in the Jesuit house rebuilt in 1682 on the site of the chapel. The property, situated on the hillside from which the king during the Fronde, watched skirmishing between the Condé and Turenne, was bought by the city in 1804. Established by Napoleon in the same year, the cemetery was laid out by Alexandre-Théodore Brongniart, and later extended.

The above is extracted from an article on Wikipedia. For those who want to know more, including a list of the notable persons buried there, here is a link to the full article.

Hello Stephen,
The shadow of the barren branches on the long cobbled path presents a mysterious mood to the picture which is apt for a cemetery despite the bright sunshine. Very nice composition with the curve of the path and the barren row of trees on both sides. Like the nice warm light and its effect on the texture and colours. Thanks for sharing.
Regards,
Subho

I find cemeteries fascinating places Stephen and this massive place would keep me occupied for a day at least. Your note makes interesting reading and I think you shot shows the 'garden' aspect very well. The leafless trees lining the road give the place a rural feel and the light has provided some super shadows across the cobbles. The figures are a good addition too as I like the way they seem to be studying a map... I wonder if they are trying to locate Jim Morrison's grave?

Hello Stephen
the view of the cemetery with the strong light and shades, the trees silhouetted against sky, the long shadows across the cobbled path all lend an air of mystery to this great picture. The composition is spot on with excellent framing. Your note is informative and interesting too.
Thanks for sharing and have a great Sunday.
best regards
Satya

Hello Stephen,
Usually I am not taking pictures nor I like to write about cemeteries - but this is an exception to make, becouse the view with the variable shades and light through the naked had created a marvelous photojob.
Fine DOF, clarity and the famous place look as being with a majestic calm.
Have a nice new week,
Ike

Hi Stephen
another shadowy shot this and I think this one is even more effective and beautiful that the last one. Wonderfully enticing lines and immaculate detail make this a real gem of an image. Love it!

Hi Stephen
Being a fan of cemeteries, I have heard a lot of this place, and it looks from your shot that it is as beautiful as they say. This truly does look like a necropolis, a real city of the dead and this being a major avenue. the memorials are beautiful, and each so unique. The muted colors and shadows from the trees create the right mood here. Very nicely done.
Cheers
Noel

Hi Stephen,
this is a stunning image accompanied by interesting notes. I love how the tombs are standing in gorgeous light. Even the long shadows across the road have an important part to play in the overall scene. Well done!
Warm regards
Harriet

Good sharpness and very ornate headstones in this attractive and well kept cemetery. I used to live near the Toowong cemetery in Brisbane and found it quite ugly and a waste of prime real estate in what is now inner city but was on the outskirts in the 19th century. The curving flagstone road adds good lead in lines and diminishing linear perspective. Excellent textural details and shadow play. Tfs!

A beautiful looking cemetery, Stephen - elegant tombs, almost like small gothic cathedrals. This is something Europe does that has no real analogue in the US, except perhaps in New Orleans. Beautiful late light here casting shadows along the cobblestones. I'd love as well to see a closeup of some of these structures!